Therapists in The Dalles, OR
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Oregon below.Online Therapists
![Photo of Varsha Ruparel, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46309aa1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Varsha Ruparel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
My clients have developed healthy boundaries, ability to deal with conflicting situations, frustration/dilemmas, issues adjusting to life changes of various types, ability to address pain, working through losses and finally adding meaning to life.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT! Are you living your best life? Do you sense your life has become unmanageable? Do you struggle in relationships? If your story contains themes of depression, anxiety, addiction, interpersonal issues or just "seem to be stuck right now"; lets have a conversation to see how I can help you to create a better story. I'm a therapist, but I'm also a parent and wife who makes plenty of mistakes. Luckily, perfection isn't necessary or desirable. It often takes only small, positive changes to yield significant benefits. Things can get better, sometimes quickly, if you begin taking steps in the right direction.
My clients have developed healthy boundaries, ability to deal with conflicting situations, frustration/dilemmas, issues adjusting to life changes of various types, ability to address pain, working through losses and finally adding meaning to life.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT! Are you living your best life? Do you sense your life has become unmanageable? Do you struggle in relationships? If your story contains themes of depression, anxiety, addiction, interpersonal issues or just "seem to be stuck right now"; lets have a conversation to see how I can help you to create a better story. I'm a therapist, but I'm also a parent and wife who makes plenty of mistakes. Luckily, perfection isn't necessary or desirable. It often takes only small, positive changes to yield significant benefits. Things can get better, sometimes quickly, if you begin taking steps in the right direction.
![Photo of William Hamel, MS, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e73f7177-ac53-4aa4-830f-c28f38741f43/2/320x400.jpeg)
William Hamel
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I offer a relationship of warmth and attentiveness to heal feelings of pain and nurture patterns of joy.
I work with people who may be struggling to feel present in their life, or feel unable to enact their values for immediate and long term goals. Often, these struggles stem from things outside our control like past traumatic experiences and systematic oppression. In my collaborative approach to therapy, we will refocus on the experiences, decisions, and actions within your control to move your life in the direction you want it to go. My experiences includes working with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, anger, addictions, and life transitions.
I offer a relationship of warmth and attentiveness to heal feelings of pain and nurture patterns of joy.
I work with people who may be struggling to feel present in their life, or feel unable to enact their values for immediate and long term goals. Often, these struggles stem from things outside our control like past traumatic experiences and systematic oppression. In my collaborative approach to therapy, we will refocus on the experiences, decisions, and actions within your control to move your life in the direction you want it to go. My experiences includes working with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, anger, addictions, and life transitions.
![Photo of Erica Ironside, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/effcf132-0ad9-45c9-8a26-053954c394e5/2/320x400.png)
Erica Ironside
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Waitlist for new clients
This allows treatment to be tailored specifically to the individual in a way that can most effectively help to create change, lower distress, increase growth, and alleviate pain.
To reveal and work through one's difficulties can be scary, but fulfilling and enriching. Thus, I work to create a trusting, supportive environment free of judgement that allows for a safe space to dive into the depths of one's unique story and what brings them to treatment. Therapy can be a powerful process in which one can gain new insights, decrease distress and suffering, uncover strengths and limitations, and improve relationships both with one's self and others. I will treat you with compassion, empathy, encouragement, and honesty as we navigate the therapeutic process together.
This allows treatment to be tailored specifically to the individual in a way that can most effectively help to create change, lower distress, increase growth, and alleviate pain.
To reveal and work through one's difficulties can be scary, but fulfilling and enriching. Thus, I work to create a trusting, supportive environment free of judgement that allows for a safe space to dive into the depths of one's unique story and what brings them to treatment. Therapy can be a powerful process in which one can gain new insights, decrease distress and suffering, uncover strengths and limitations, and improve relationships both with one's self and others. I will treat you with compassion, empathy, encouragement, and honesty as we navigate the therapeutic process together.
![Photo of Samuel Stem, PsyD, LPC, CADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d36721f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Samuel Stem
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
With more than thirty years of practice and training, I assist individuals and families struggling with chronic health illnesses, disabilities, severe mental illness, and substance abuse/dependence issues.
I am a Kink-knowledgeable, LGBTQ-friendly, insight-oriented practitioner. I work with clients concerned with substance use/abuse, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life transitions and emotional regulation concerns. I offer an initial free consultation to help you decide if I may be a good fit, as well as a generous sliding scale. Located in NE Portland, close to public transit, with weekend and evening hours available.
With more than thirty years of practice and training, I assist individuals and families struggling with chronic health illnesses, disabilities, severe mental illness, and substance abuse/dependence issues.
I am a Kink-knowledgeable, LGBTQ-friendly, insight-oriented practitioner. I work with clients concerned with substance use/abuse, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life transitions and emotional regulation concerns. I offer an initial free consultation to help you decide if I may be a good fit, as well as a generous sliding scale. Located in NE Portland, close to public transit, with weekend and evening hours available.
![Photo of Elise Bascom, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1abd3618-1f52-4133-932e-86e1c80bc235/1/320x400.png)
Experiencing trauma, stress, or chronic pain/illness can be overwhelming, making it difficult to find relief and joy in daily life. You might feel trapped in your pain or struggle to cope with stress, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration. My goal is to provide a supportive and understanding environment where we can explore these challenges together and find a path to healing and resilience. Whether you're dealing with past trauma or ongoing stress, I'm here to help you navigate your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Experiencing trauma, stress, or chronic pain/illness can be overwhelming, making it difficult to find relief and joy in daily life. You might feel trapped in your pain or struggle to cope with stress, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration. My goal is to provide a supportive and understanding environment where we can explore these challenges together and find a path to healing and resilience. Whether you're dealing with past trauma or ongoing stress, I'm here to help you navigate your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Florence Trentacosti, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b662c39-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have much experience with health problems and can assist people in developing healthy lifestyle, diet, etc and to recover from illness.
The therapeutic relationship is crucial to the healing process, whether the problem is with external relationships, traumatic experience, or one's relationship with the self. I use psychoanalytic principles and relational dynamics to explore the internal conflicts and patterns that are at the root of emotional, psychological and relational problems. I am also sensitive to spirituality and the existential problems inherent in being human, and how these affect us all. I have a special interest in the psychology of twins and intersubjective relating in general.
I have much experience with health problems and can assist people in developing healthy lifestyle, diet, etc and to recover from illness.
The therapeutic relationship is crucial to the healing process, whether the problem is with external relationships, traumatic experience, or one's relationship with the self. I use psychoanalytic principles and relational dynamics to explore the internal conflicts and patterns that are at the root of emotional, psychological and relational problems. I am also sensitive to spirituality and the existential problems inherent in being human, and how these affect us all. I have a special interest in the psychology of twins and intersubjective relating in general.
![Photo of Angelie Karabatsos, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e22adc87-cbba-46bf-9719-de6157c059ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angelie Karabatsos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
By building on strengths, healing ruptures, and learning new coping tools to relieve emotional pain.
Does life feel overwhelming like being trapped in a never-ending maze? Having these feelings are perfectly normal. Talking through the life concerns or worries can help but it’s hard to share deep personal concerns with family or friends. The pressure of family, work, or past trauma's can cause anxiety, stress, even depression. Whether dealing with a difficult relationship, career, or life challenges talking with a trained professional, who is caring and compassionate can help you find freedom and start enjoying life. Think about how great it would be living life instead of just making it through each day.
By building on strengths, healing ruptures, and learning new coping tools to relieve emotional pain.
Does life feel overwhelming like being trapped in a never-ending maze? Having these feelings are perfectly normal. Talking through the life concerns or worries can help but it’s hard to share deep personal concerns with family or friends. The pressure of family, work, or past trauma's can cause anxiety, stress, even depression. Whether dealing with a difficult relationship, career, or life challenges talking with a trained professional, who is caring and compassionate can help you find freedom and start enjoying life. Think about how great it would be living life instead of just making it through each day.
![Photo of Ashley Terry, LPC, LMHC, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9e77746-51a3-4f90-906e-9c938cd0d157/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045 (Online Only)
Hello I am Ashley it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new clients in OR and WA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Oregon, as well as a License Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington. I have provided treatment to individuals suffering from eating disorders, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, marital and relational issues, grief and loss, as well as all forms of anxiety disorders, mood disorders and a vast range of substance, sex and gambling disorders.
Hello I am Ashley it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new clients in OR and WA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Oregon, as well as a License Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington. I have provided treatment to individuals suffering from eating disorders, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, marital and relational issues, grief and loss, as well as all forms of anxiety disorders, mood disorders and a vast range of substance, sex and gambling disorders.
![Photo of Christie Hawkes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b0014f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christie Hawkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209 (Online Only)
I am particularly helpful with anxiety disorders including perfectionism, OCD, and panic; I work with adults who are experiencing depression, chronic pain, trauma, intimacy, challenging life transitions, etc.
I offer respectful, sincere, compassionate therapy in a safe environment. Therapy gives you time and space for one on one support in a private setting which can be so helpful when things get overwhelming. I will actively listen and collaborate with you on increasing insight while fostering empowerment and identifying tools for change.
I am particularly helpful with anxiety disorders including perfectionism, OCD, and panic; I work with adults who are experiencing depression, chronic pain, trauma, intimacy, challenging life transitions, etc.
I offer respectful, sincere, compassionate therapy in a safe environment. Therapy gives you time and space for one on one support in a private setting which can be so helpful when things get overwhelming. I will actively listen and collaborate with you on increasing insight while fostering empowerment and identifying tools for change.
![Photo of Helen Zwiebel, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02a28cf6-f6b2-432d-b6b0-78d41ba3258d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Helen Zwiebel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97236 (Online Only)
Specialties: Consensual/Ethical Non-Monogamy, Sex and Relationship Issues, BDSM/Kink, Body Positivity, Consent, Pain Management, and SPMI.
My private practice is focused on helping people curious about and/or practicing consensual/ethical non-monogamy, solo poly, relationship anarchy, and any alternative relationship style. I am BDSM/kink-aware and LGBTQIA+ friendly.
Specialties: Consensual/Ethical Non-Monogamy, Sex and Relationship Issues, BDSM/Kink, Body Positivity, Consent, Pain Management, and SPMI.
My private practice is focused on helping people curious about and/or practicing consensual/ethical non-monogamy, solo poly, relationship anarchy, and any alternative relationship style. I am BDSM/kink-aware and LGBTQIA+ friendly.
![Photo of Gwen Welch-Slaff - The Healing Haven, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e4d7d64-89c4-49a9-8655-bf3ffa7f3167/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
![Photo of Caroline Sabi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53a87cf9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Sabi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in depression and anxiety, chronic pain, multicultural assimilation, crisis of meaning, grief, and loss, relationship difficulties, parenting issues.
I have had the privilege of witnessing people undergo the slow, extremely subtle and remarkable journey of healing and self-transformation. This process of psychological growth is astoundingly complex, multilayered, circular and even mysteriously numinous in its unfolding. My philosophy as a therapist is primarily on core transformation rather than merely symptom management and needless to say, I strongly believe in the centrality of the therapeutic relationship as a significant healing agent. Moving towards our wholeness necessitates the courage to first move into the wounded parts that we all have as members of the human species.
I specialize in depression and anxiety, chronic pain, multicultural assimilation, crisis of meaning, grief, and loss, relationship difficulties, parenting issues.
I have had the privilege of witnessing people undergo the slow, extremely subtle and remarkable journey of healing and self-transformation. This process of psychological growth is astoundingly complex, multilayered, circular and even mysteriously numinous in its unfolding. My philosophy as a therapist is primarily on core transformation rather than merely symptom management and needless to say, I strongly believe in the centrality of the therapeutic relationship as a significant healing agent. Moving towards our wholeness necessitates the courage to first move into the wounded parts that we all have as members of the human species.
![Photo of Nicole Lapotin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6deeae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about supporting people as they grow into their best selves, learn to be seen for who they are rather than what they look like, and strive to accept imperfections and pain with greater self-compassion. I treat eating disorders (binge eating, bulimia, anorexia, exercise addiction), anxiety, depression, traits of borderline personality, interpersonal trauma, and relationship problems in families and couples. I believe that a collaborative and accepting relationship is needed for people to change and heal.
I am passionate about supporting people as they grow into their best selves, learn to be seen for who they are rather than what they look like, and strive to accept imperfections and pain with greater self-compassion. I treat eating disorders (binge eating, bulimia, anorexia, exercise addiction), anxiety, depression, traits of borderline personality, interpersonal trauma, and relationship problems in families and couples. I believe that a collaborative and accepting relationship is needed for people to change and heal.
![Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Campbell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b101fee5-83a2-488e-99d6-0bdbe56e7406/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Elizabeth Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairview, OR 97024 (Online Only)
Therapy can be hard, and I want to make it as safe and approachable as possible. We all have the potential to be our best selves, and I'm passionate about supporting people through the process of figuring out what that means for them. I treat the person who sits in front of me, whatever they come with - depression, anxiety, a history of trauma, illness, complex family and personal histories. I believe that self compassion and relationship are the key components for any therapeutic relationship.
Therapy can be hard, and I want to make it as safe and approachable as possible. We all have the potential to be our best selves, and I'm passionate about supporting people through the process of figuring out what that means for them. I treat the person who sits in front of me, whatever they come with - depression, anxiety, a history of trauma, illness, complex family and personal histories. I believe that self compassion and relationship are the key components for any therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Aaron Todd Overman, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24e3418e-d709-4705-8149-748d113c865d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m excited to announce the opening of my new private practice. I have 20 years of experience as a psychologist working with adults, children, and families. I specialize in EMDR and my favorite part of my job is watching people let go of the pain from trauma and seeing the guilt and shame melt away. I have plenty of openings currently and look forward to hearing from you.
I’m excited to announce the opening of my new private practice. I have 20 years of experience as a psychologist working with adults, children, and families. I specialize in EMDR and my favorite part of my job is watching people let go of the pain from trauma and seeing the guilt and shame melt away. I have plenty of openings currently and look forward to hearing from you.
![Photo of Robbie Bahl, MD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d888f09-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Shanti, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for mental health issues and addiction. Our TMS therapy program treats depression in our clients using a new and unique technology. Robbie Bahl, MD is our medical director. He is a dual Board Certified medical physician, specializing in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine. He performs Suboxone and Buprenorphine Inductions and Maintenance, Chronic Pain, Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, Vivitrol/Sublocade Injections, and TMS therapy for depression. We have a team of MDs, NPs, and therapists to work to for your wellness.
At Shanti, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for mental health issues and addiction. Our TMS therapy program treats depression in our clients using a new and unique technology. Robbie Bahl, MD is our medical director. He is a dual Board Certified medical physician, specializing in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine. He performs Suboxone and Buprenorphine Inductions and Maintenance, Chronic Pain, Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, Vivitrol/Sublocade Injections, and TMS therapy for depression. We have a team of MDs, NPs, and therapists to work to for your wellness.
![Photo of William (Billy) J.w. Feldmann, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99f4f0e8-8f17-44b8-b0aa-69cbd4ccee14/3/320x400.jpeg)
William (Billy) J.w. Feldmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97123
I believe that people entering into a therapeutic relationship have made an empowering decision to invest and promote healthy and meaningful changes in their lives. Successful therapy requires honesty, transparency, trust, and collaboratively working towards goals that promote healthy living and optimal well-being. I employ a variety of evidence-based counseling practices, with the intent of customizing each approach to match the client and their healing journey. I have experience in working with individuals struggling with mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, grief & loss, severe mental illness, stress, life transitions, and addiction
I believe that people entering into a therapeutic relationship have made an empowering decision to invest and promote healthy and meaningful changes in their lives. Successful therapy requires honesty, transparency, trust, and collaboratively working towards goals that promote healthy living and optimal well-being. I employ a variety of evidence-based counseling practices, with the intent of customizing each approach to match the client and their healing journey. I have experience in working with individuals struggling with mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, grief & loss, severe mental illness, stress, life transitions, and addiction
![Photo of Mikayla Schmitz, CSWA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a22abd4-9498-4686-b75c-76a956f76c30/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mikayla Schmitz
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Mikayla and I am accepting new clients in Oregon! I aim to provide a safe space where you can show up in your authenticity and truth, without fear of judgement. I bring a deep respect for all cultural and social identities, a commitment to social justice and tender empathy for all folx and their unique experiences. Through an anti-oppressive lens and with a variety of evidence-based therapy modalities, I’ll help you develop healthy coping skills to move through life more easily even amid pain and struggle.
Hello, my name is Mikayla and I am accepting new clients in Oregon! I aim to provide a safe space where you can show up in your authenticity and truth, without fear of judgement. I bring a deep respect for all cultural and social identities, a commitment to social justice and tender empathy for all folx and their unique experiences. Through an anti-oppressive lens and with a variety of evidence-based therapy modalities, I’ll help you develop healthy coping skills to move through life more easily even amid pain and struggle.
![Photo of Amber Caldera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3fe054e-dc6e-45a3-bd71-5c55a63d2cca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Caldera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
Hi! My case load is full but check out my website to match with one of my associates who would love to work with you! I am an LCSW in Oregon and Washington. I work with teens and adults particularly around trauma and more severe symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also work with those with chronic illness, body image issues, gender questions, and neurodivergence. I have a particular affinity for people who have endured trauma and who feel like they are outsiders. I pride myself in being culturally sensitive and welcoming to all, and someone who works as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I'm an approved clinical supervisor in Oregon.
Hi! My case load is full but check out my website to match with one of my associates who would love to work with you! I am an LCSW in Oregon and Washington. I work with teens and adults particularly around trauma and more severe symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also work with those with chronic illness, body image issues, gender questions, and neurodivergence. I have a particular affinity for people who have endured trauma and who feel like they are outsiders. I pride myself in being culturally sensitive and welcoming to all, and someone who works as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I'm an approved clinical supervisor in Oregon.
![Photo of Andrea Valde, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63f67cd4-26a4-40d0-b49f-60f0072091d2/2/320x400.png)
Andrea Valde
Professional Counselor Associate, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232 (Online Only)
I value the opportunity to support people in making changes they want in their life and to bear witness to people moving forward on a path they want for themselves. I have experience working with people who navigating anxiety, depression, impact of traumatic experiences, disability related to physical and mental health concerns, impacts of aging, chronic pain, substance use challenges, and adjusting to major life changes. I enjoy supporting effective interpersonal communication, developing coping strategies relevant to each individual, mindfulness practice, and developing healthy dynamics with natural supports.
I value the opportunity to support people in making changes they want in their life and to bear witness to people moving forward on a path they want for themselves. I have experience working with people who navigating anxiety, depression, impact of traumatic experiences, disability related to physical and mental health concerns, impacts of aging, chronic pain, substance use challenges, and adjusting to major life changes. I enjoy supporting effective interpersonal communication, developing coping strategies relevant to each individual, mindfulness practice, and developing healthy dynamics with natural supports.
See more therapy options for The Dalles
Chronic Pain Therapists
How does chronic pain therapy work?
Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.
What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?
Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.
Are there new treatments for chronic pain?
Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.
How long does therapy for chronic pain take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.